The Tragedy of Julius Caesar Act II Scene

The Tragedy of Julius Caesar Act II, Scene i

To what extent does experience determine what we perceive? Analyze Brutus’ values as expressed in the speech in Scene ii, lines 82 -88. What is happening? Analyze Cassius’ speech appealing those values in lines 135 -161 of Scene ii. What is happening? What do these two speeches reveal about each character and their emotions and motives for the play?

Warm-Up Why would anyone take part in a political conspiracy? Can you give an example from real life of a political conspiracy? Television? Movies?

Anticipation Guide

Act II Forecasting On the eve of the ides of March (obviously the most important day in history), Cassius and the other conspirators visit Brutus. All agree to kill Caesar the next day. The next morning, Calpurnia, fearing danger, begs Caesar to stay home. He agrees at first, but Brutus persuades him to go see the Senate.

Act II, Scene i Examine lines 21 -27: In your own words, what is Brutus saying? Examine lines 70 -76: Specifically 71 -72, 73 -74, 76 -77 What is unique about these lines? Iambic Pentameter: Let’s examine the O interjection.

Act II, Scene i Exchange between Brutus and Cassius (lines 8694): What does Cassius say to Brutus? What is he trying to do? Examine lines 112 -153: How is Brutus’ perception of swearing an oath different from Cassius’? How do Cassius’ and Brutus’ different experiences affect each one’s perceptions of whether or not he should be a conspirator?

Act II, Scene i Re-read lines 129 -136: Who does Brutus say are people who sear oaths? In your own words, what is happening in lines 132 -136? Cicero, lines 141 -153: The conspirators discuss inviting Cicero into the mix. He is an excellent writer and speaker. Support Pompey (who Caesar defeated) For these reasons, would he make a good addition to the assassination team?

Act II, Scene i Cassius’ Speech (lines 155 -161): What reasons does Cassius offer to justify the killing of Antony? Note: For the reasons that Cassius dislikes Antony he remarkably sounds like himself. Portia’s Place (lines 268 -274): Where is Portia’s place in society? What is her main argument for encouraging Brutus to tell her what is troubling him?

Act II, Scene i Portia’s appeal to Brutus (lines 280 -286): What is Portia asking Brutus to reveal? How does the stage directions end in Act II, Scene i?